The Coulbourn Instruments Animal Acoustic Startle System provides a completely automated environment in which to implement all of the commonly employed startle protocols. Procedures such as habituation, pre-pulse, inhibition and fear-potentiated startle are easily accomplished.

The system is computer-based and all stimulus parameters are specified by completing entries in Windows available from a single screen. Experiment protocols are saved to disk files.

The V85-05 Audio Source Module is used to provide acoustic stimuli. The software allows the use of either stimulus type, (tone or noise) in either or both stimulus positions. For tone stimuli, amplitude, frequency and duration are computer controlled; rise/decay time is switch selectable on the V85-05. Amplitude and duration of noise bursts are computer controlled. Calibration routines for noise and tone stimuli are included.

During an experimental session, the software displays both numeric and response waveform data. A post-hoc viewer is included for critical examination trial-by-trial response data.

In addition to acoustic stimuli, outputs are available for stimuli in other modalities. The software allows programming of these events in the same scheme used for acoustic stimuli, and they may be used in lieu of acoustic stimuli in startle designs.
The user also maintains complete control of such experimental details as the characteristics of the adaptation period, the use of the ventilation fan in the chamber, and the nature of the acquired data. The system offers a sophisticated level of control combined with an intuitive user interface.